Tanabata Star Festival

Yesterday, Robby and I ventured out on another MWR trip with some spouses of the pilots in our squadron. The day was HOT and by hot I mean the worst possible heat with humidity that rivals Orlando, Florida. We were happy that our bus had decent air conditioning and water for us. Our bus departed at 0830 and we headed to Tokyo to have Sunday brunch at the New Sanno. The New Sanno is a military only hotel that is in the heart of Tokyo and offered a wonderful brunch every Sunday and holidays. Brunch consisted of your basic breakfast items and also included ice sculptures, fresh sushi, fish and caviar. It was my first time ever eating caviar and it wasn't bad. It was salty, not fishy and went well with our champagne.

After a few hours at the New Sanno, it was time to board the bus and head to a town called Hiratsuka where they have a large festival every year called Tanababta. Tanabata is a very popular holiday in Japan. The word Tanabata literally means "seventh night". This popular festival is also sometimes called that Star Festival because it is about two stars that fell in love but could only meet on the 7th day of the 7th month in the Milky Way. I am certain there is more to the story, but for us Americans, it was could enough reason to partake in their celebrations.

Street Vendor

We arrived in the afternoon and were able to roam the street of the town for a few hours. The streets were packed with people who were dressed in different kinds of kimonos. Like most festivals, the street were lined with vendors selling candy, sweets, food and toys. For the most part it smelled great, but there were a few booths that I walked past quickly as it didn't smell like something I would eat.

There were lanterns and paper decoration hanging in the street and Robby was fascinated at looking at them. After an hour of looking at the street vendors and decorations, we decided that the heat was getting the best of us so we walked to a local shrine where there was plenty of shade and a place to sit. Robby had a great time, and loved the other kids in our group. He especially grew fond of the oldest boy, Ian, and I am certain it is because he reminds him of his cousin, Josh.

Tanabata decorations
 

Robby and Ian

Robby at the shrine

Robby and I in front of the shrine

Most of the festivities and big parades were later that night, but we caught our bus back to the base at 4:30pm. We were happy to go home and enjoy our air conditioning!

Robby enjoying his fan

Robby on the bus